Crew 99 - Packing: Freeze-Out

This is seriously cold weather, folks.

Pack a bit extra of everything so you can change out of wet stuff into dry at least once daily. An extra pair of dry socks, dry shoes, and dry gloves will go a long way—as will a warm knit hat exclusively for sleeping (in addition to one to wear during the day). Also don’t forget snow or rain pants. You will be kneeling and sitting in the snow a lot.

Finally: Don’t forget sunscreen. Kids often get more burned in winter ’cause they don’t bother, yet conditions are worse, what with sunlight reflecting off all the snow.

The Ten Essentials

Combustion (at least two: lighters, waterproof matches, flint-and-steel; also: tinder—twine or dryer lint)

Hydration (1–2 quart/liter-sized water bottles or Camelbak-style reservoir)

Nutrition (2–3 granola bars, energy bars, candy bars, GORP, whatever)

Navigation (compass, copy of map)

Insulation (extra clothing, fleece, warm hat, and rain jacket under “clothing” all count)

Illumination (headlamp or flashlight)

First-aid kit (the crew brings a kit, but carry a small one of your own, including personal medications—and you must advise adult leaders about any meds)

Tool and repair kit (pocket knife or Leatherman/multitool; needle and thread; dental floss; duct tape wrapped around hiking pole or pencil)

Emergency shelter (space blanket or poncho)

Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, UPF lip balm, hat with an all-around brim, long pants and long sleeves)

Other personal gear

Pack

Pack cover or contractor bag

Winter sleeping bag (in waterproof stuff sack or trash bag)

Sleeping pad (not an air mattress; foam pads are warmest; Therm-a-Rest-type self-inflating pads also acceptable)

Sleeping bag liner (highly recommended; can lower the temperature rating of your bag by about 7–9°)

Trash bag (large)

Ziplock bags (3)

50 feet of thin rope

Cup

Bowl/plate

Spoon or spork

Bandana (this can be cotton)

Personal toilet paper (in baggie)

Toothbrush & toothpaste

Gold Bond (for feet, and if you choose not to wear underwear)

Camp soap (biodegradable liquid)

Pencil and paper

Whistle and mirror/CD (for signaling)

Clothing

It’s winter, so layering is key to keeping warm—hence the extra pairs on this particular list compared to most. (Also, you tend to get far sweatier than you’d think, so you need full sets to change into for the night.) Remember: COTTON KILLS! All clothing should be polyester or wool (that includes socks and underwear). No jeans. No cotton tees. No cotton socks.

Long pants (2–3 pair)

Short sleeve shirt (3)

Long sleeve shirt (3)

Underwear (3 pair)

Socks (5 pair)

Thermals/long underwear (2 shirts, 2 pants)

Winter fleece or wool sweater

Warm sleeping hat (like a tuke or close-fitting knit beanie; one that covers your ears is perfect)

Warm winter hat (for day use)

Glove liners (1–2 pair)

Mittens or gloves (preferably 2 pair; they always get wet)

Scarf or face mask (recommended)

Winter coat

Rain jacket (waterproof)

Hiking boots (waterproofed)

Rain or snow pants (waterproof)

Optional

Gaiters

Hiking poles

Day pack (tiny)

Small camp towel (optional)

Skis or snowshoes (crew can rent/provide; you may bring personal gear)

Ice axe and crampons (leaders will say if needed; crew has extras)

Book

Camera (or use your cellphone—but see the next item)

Cellphone (but you cannot use it to call, text, play games, or use Internet; it is for emergencies only—or as a camera)

Cabin shoes (flip-flops are great: lightweight)

Deodorant (not advised—especially in bear country)